Focusing on the Doughnut instead of the Doughnut Hole! The Piedmont Perspective, Vol 62, August 13, 2008
What’s New?
Standing in line at my favorite local doughnut store in Montclair Village (I can always pass up the tiramasu, but never a fresh-baked doughnut!) waiting to order a maple old-fashioned, I couldn’t help but think about “Mr. Selective” – a special client of mine who had spent a year and a half diligently searching for a home before he successfully landed in contract on a wonderful property that met all of his criteria and then some.
As often happens during the inspection process, the realities of home ownership became heightened – and so did Mr. S’s anxiety – instead of focusing on the doughnut, he began to focus on the doughnut hole!
His initial excitement about the property evolved into concern and Mr. S. began to think of his lovely new home as a potential problem . . .
Understanding a first-time buyer’s process (his feelings are not atypical) but having gained perspective from the numerous home inspections I have witnessed over the years, I said, “Let’s turn this around and remember that the purchase of this home isn’t a “problem” – it’s a solution!” Relief spread across his face and he laughed. “You are right,” he said, “this is a solution and I do love the house! ” (Light bulb moment!)
How did I get so wise? I didn’t. Luckily, I crossed paths on one of my very first listings with “Mr. Trustee” who was much wiser than I . . .
Building on an entire career of more than 50 years of experience, he brought a calming civility to a transaction that could easily have become complicated. In what proved to be a very challenging and protracted negotiation, Mr. T remained unfazed, regardless of the hurdle, returning again and again to his mantra: “There are no problems, there are only solutions.”
Zen? You bet!
But what an epiphany: one can choose to find the solution, instead of focusing on the problem!
As a real estate professional, I try to remember this example whenever I feel challenged. Even when the solution isn’t easy, there is always a solution – as long as the problem has been well defined.
Identifying the objections, examining the options and helping the client determine a solution, is part of a good agent’s repertoire.
Now let’s all have a doughnut – I’m buying!
What’s Coming?
Anthony Riggins brings to market a 4bdrm/2bth Craftsman-style home at 125 York Drive in Piedmont. Well-located on a quiet tree-lined street, this vintage home offers great separation of space, featuring a 1982 second-story addition with two large bedrooms, full bath and home office. Period details include hardwood floors and built-ins. Price: $1,150,000. Open Sunday 2-4:30. www.Grubbco.com
Judy Cain and Ben Kahn have brought a spectacular Mediterranean residence to market at 878 Longridge Road in Crocker Highlands. This wonderful home features 4bdrms/3bths, formal living and dining rooms, and beautifully updated kitchen opening onto a large deck and garden below. Exceptional entertaining – indoors or out – this beautiful home has charm and grace to spare! Price: $1,299,000. Open Sunday, August 17, 2-4:30.
www.878longridge.com
Last, but certainly not least, is Liz Dickson’s exceptional new listing on Sunnyhills Road just outside of Piedmont in Crocker Highlands. This charming white brick storybook home, designed as a “Honeymoon Cottage” by Fredrick Reimers in 1928 has only improved with time. Featuring dormer windows, French doors, hardwood floors and exquisite gardens in a park-like setting, this graceful 3bdrm/2+bth home with chef’s kitchen and adjoining family room is truly special (homes don’t get prettier than this). Don’t miss this captivating Cottage! Open Sunday 2-4:30.
What’s Pending?
Piedmont had several strong sales in July and August including the Craftsman Bungalow on Magnolia Avenue, the Chateau-inspired home on Oakmont Avenue, the Mid-Century on Saint James Drive, the Cape Cod on Huntleigh and the fabulous Estate on Lafayette Avenue.
There truly is a home for everyone!
What’s Happening?
Wonderful starter homes abound in Upper Rockridge- from Mavis Delacroix’s completely renovated mid-century listing on 39 Harbord Court for $719,000, to Dana Cohen’s nifty renovated 40′s retro bungalow, complete with checkered kitchen floor and authentic Wedgewood stove for $695,000 on Broadway Terrace. Both of these homes represent terrific values and offer a great Upper Rockridge location to boot! www.Grubbco.com
What’s Fun!
If you have ever needed a good electrician (and who hasn’t?) look no further than Earl Chapman of Earl’s Lo-Cost Electric. (510) 436-4787. Earl and his sons are not only dependable and skilled, but Earl is also a committed community organizer.
Once again, Earl has organized The Annual Lake Chabot Golf Club Family Day and Golf Tournament, sponsored by The Lake Chabot Golf Club. This family-fun tournament promotes and encourages youth golf in our community.
Tee-off is August 31, 2008!
Registration begins at 7:00 am. Tournament fee is $95, Junior players under 17 are $50 and all fees include barbecue luncheon, tee prizes, awards and 1/2 cart fee.
Prizes will be awarded for longest drive, closest to the pin on par threes and hole-in-one! Following the tournament, there will be a putting contest and a Callaway golf club demo. A silent auction and raffle will also take place throughout the day.
If you were looking for an excuse to get out and play golf, this is a wonderful opportunity to spend time with family and friends* to support a very worthwhile cause, while enjoying a day at The Lake Chabot Golf Club.
For more information: contact Earl Chapman or Marvin Millet at(510) 638-7263
*Foursomes are encouraged!
The Piedmont Plug!
Piedmont mom and super organizer, Heidi Monical, is participating in the Susan G. Komen 3-day Breast Cancer Walk on September 5-7 in San Francisco.
Heidi is one of those unique and rare individuals who continually puts her heart into action –
“My inspiration for this endeavor has come from watching many friends and family members fight this disease. I felt it was my time to do something to help. Part of my commitment to this walk is to raise money for this very worthwhile charity. Each participant is required to raise $2200. Any donation, large or small, would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much for your support!”
To donate go to http://08.the3day.org/site/PageServer, click on” donate now “button, and type in Heidi Monical (it’s easy).
This is an amazing feat (or better yet – amazing feet)! Please join me in supporting Heidi in this worthwhile endeavor. After contributing so much to our community through her volunteer efforts, I can’t think of anyone more deserving, nor think of a better cause!